Nash Dogs Cafe in Old Hickory is closed indefinitely after a kitchen fire ripped through the restaurant on Saturday, owner Michael Spencer said. Spencer told reporters that everyone made it out safely with no injuries, but the blaze left heavy damage in both the kitchen and dining room, sending the small cafe and its staff scrambling to secure the building and figure out what comes next.
In an interview with WSMV, Spencer said he still does not know how the fire started and is waiting on an official report from the Nashville Fire Department. He told the station that, according to a GoFundMe update, the fire began in the kitchen and "tore through the cafe," leading to the indefinite shutdown. Spencer said that "walking into the building and seeing the destruction was heartbreaking" and added that he is determined to rebuild.
From food truck to neighborhood cafe
The restaurant's website lists its Old Hickory address and menu, and the business grew from a mobile cart into a brick-and-mortar spot at 1427 Robinson Road. Local coverage has chronicled the cafe's quick rise and strong neighborhood following, including a recent profile in Nashville Lifestyles.
What comes next
Spencer said he has already heard from other local businesses and regulars offering support while crews work to secure the site and insurers assess the damage. As reported by WSMV, he is asking for patience as he and his team sort out a timeline for repairs and an eventual reopening.
For now, the Old Hickory location at 1427 Robinson Road will stay closed. Spencer said he plans to share updates on the cafe's social channels as plans move forward. Neighbors and longtime customers have already begun leaving messages of support online while the owner and staff focus on rebuilding.
